Beginner-Intermediate Kayaking – Balcony Falls

OVERVIEW

We can still take advantage of this past weekend’s rain with a trip to a wonderful section of the James River: Balcony Falls. I spent much of my earlier paddling days at Balcony, working on rapid running, ferrying, eddy hopping, river reading, and when I wasn’t swimming; surfing. This section of the James is a great place to learn, or work on your skills. We’ll stop at several places on the river to go over those techniques.

This trip is for anyone who has been down a river in a white water kayak. DO NOT sign up unless you have prior river experience. The trip details are subject to change depending on weather and water level. So far everything looks great – Saturday is supposed to be sunny and warm, and the water level should be between 4-5 feet; perfect for beginner/intermediates. Email (dclark@virginia.edu), or call (962-9737) me if you are not sure of your qualifications.

We depart Echols at 9, drive 1.5 hours to the take-out, set shuttle (I prefer the bike shuttle but will have multiple vehicles if we have a big group), put-in at around 11:30, paddle ~1.5 miles to Baclony, grab a lunch on a rock above the drop, run the falls and continue down through sweet rapids with several stops, then paddle the long stretch of flat water to the take-out. We may stop at a fantastic Barbecue joint on our way home so bring some ca$h.

The Club provides boats, gear (including wetsuits & splash jackets), boat transport, guidance

You should bring: swimwear + several non-cotton layers, footwear that can get wet (non-bulky sandles, aqua socks, or neoprene booties work best), towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, pack a light lunch, money for food on the way home.